KFD Awarded 'District of Distinction'
On October 16, 2009, Kensington Fire Protection District became the newest District of Distinction through the Special District Leadership Foundation. The District of Distinction accreditation is one of the most prestigious local government awards in the state of California. This award clearly validates Kensington Fire's commitment to good governance and to ethical and sound operating practices.

Kensington Fire Protection District met a list of requirements involving policies, procedures, continuing education and audit standards to receive this accreditation. They are the 12th District of Distinction since the program began in 2006.

When asked why Kensington Fire Protection District decided to apply for District of Distinction accreditation, Fire Chief Maples stated: "The Kensington Fire Protection District pursued the District of Distinction accreditation to demonstrate our level of understanding and fiscal responsibility in providing essential public services."

EBMUD's Rios Honored by KFPD
At their regular meeting of October 14, 2009 the KFPD Board of Directors honored EBMUD Planner, Jose Rios, for his work with the District. Mr. Rios was KFPD’s EBMUD liaison during the development of the District’s Water System Improvements Master Plan for the Kensington community. Jose worked closely with the KFPD to implement the five phases that were identified in the Master Plan and placing the 32 additional hydrants throughout the community to comply with California Fire Code hydrant spacing. Jose went above and beyond his job duties to meet with the District on site, attend evening and weekend meetings, and to help the District plan these important firefighting water flow improvement projects. KFPD is extremely grateful for Jose’s support and assistance, and commends him for a job well done!

Wildland Interface Demonstration Project
The wildland interface demonstration project is a cooperative effort between the Kensington Fire Protection District and the East Bay Regional Park District. The goal is to establish a fire buffer zone between the community and park district land to slow the advance of fire out of the canyon.

EBRPD hand crews and Shelterbelt Builders, a private contractor hired by KFPD, removed truckloads of poison oak, scotch broom, and hemlock and mowed annual grasses. Native vegetation has been allowed to regenerate and propagate to return the area to a more natural, fire-safe state.

Good Samaritan Honored
The Kensington Fire Protection District Board of Directors honored Oakland resident, Neil Bobo, at their March 12, 2008 meeting. Board President, Janice Kosel, hands Mr. Bobo a Community Service Award for his good Samaritan act concerning a kitchen fire in the Kensington community.

On February 5, 2008, Mr. Bobo was driving on Arlington Avenue when he noticed smoke coming from a residence on Arlington Court. He made a u-turn and ran inside the home to find heavy smoke in the kitchen area. Mr. Bobo was handed fire extinguishers and garden hoses by neighbors to help combat the kitchen blaze. When the Kensington engine arrived on scene, Mr. Bobo, wearing jeans and a t-shirt, was soaked from head to toe. Chief Lance Maples credited him with assisting in containing the fire which could have damaged a much larger portion of the home.